Cape Soya

Cape Soya is the northernmost cape in Japan, located at 45°31′22″N latitude. Numerous monuments stand here, most famously the "Monument of the Northernmost Point of Japan," a popular photo spot that makes visitors truly feel they have reached Japan’s farthest north. On clear days, you can see Sakhalin (Russian territory) across the sea. The monument’s design incorporates themes such as the North Star and peace and cooperation. The area also features many other historic monuments and memorials, including the unique Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome walkway, a statue of Rinzo Mamiya, Cape Soya Music Monument, the Naval War Dead Memorial for the Soya Sea Area, the "Akebono" statue, the La Perouse monument, a Kenji Miyazawa literature monument, Prayer Tower, and two Peace Bells. In summer, the wide grasslands emphasize the open northern landscape; in winter, drift ice can sometimes be seen, heightening the sense of being in the far north. Note that even in summer, temperatures can be cool enough to require an outer layer. Access is about 50 minutes by bus from Wakkanai Station Bus Terminal. Nearby spots like the Soya Hills and the "White Road" are also recommended to visit together.